MallowbyNames

Kahiau

kah-HEE-ow · To give generously, to share freely.

2025 rank (boys)
#6,143
Babies named in 2025
14
Peak popularity
2022
2025 frequency
1 in 122,005 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 1998

Rising since 1998, #6,143 for boys today.

Popularity of Kahiau since 1995

Babies named Kahiau per year in U.S. Social Security records.

91827200020102020Most births 2022Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1990s5
2000s76
2010s93
2020s82

Meaning & origin

Kahiau, a Hawaiian name meaning 'to give generously,' entered U.S. records in 1995 and remains an exceedingly rare choice. As of 2025, it ranks 6,143rd nationally, with a frequency of approximately 1 in 122,005 births. Its peak popularity occurred in 2022, and the name has been on a rising trajectory since 1998, suggesting slow but steady growth in awareness. While no top states are recorded for Kahiau, its cultural roots tie it closely to Hawaii and the value of communal generosity.

Kahiau is a Hawaiian word meaning 'to give generously, to share freely,' embodying a spirit of selfless giving. It has been used as a given name in Hawaii since the late 20th century, reflecting a cultural emphasis on community and generosity. Its adoption outside of Hawaii remains rare.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Kai, Kahi

Sibling names for Kahiau

Names that share Kahiau's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

K is for Kahiau, our favorite little boy.

K is for Kahiau…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Kahiau's letter becomes Kahiau's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Kahiau's book

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Kahiau mean?
Kahiau is a Hawaiian word meaning 'to give generously' or 'to share freely,' reflecting a spirit of generosity.
How popular is the name Kahiau?
Kahiau is very rare in the United States. In 2025, it ranked 6,143rd and had a frequency of about 1 in 122,005 newborns.
Is Kahiau a boy's or girl's name?
Kahiau is predominantly used for boys, though it could be used for any gender.